Philippine President Duterte is the world’s Number One troll

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s recent trip to China made me realise that he could be the world’s Number One troll. He leaves his critics baffled and his supporters surprised and awed by his statements. You can call him what you want – a former Filipino actress even called him a psychopath – but he definitely makes people think. He is a provocateur and doesn’t care what others think of him. Members of both the international and local communities have been busy discussing his latest tirade, which seems to occur on a regular basis.

Trolls usually provoke others to test their patience and Duterte has definitely pushed some people over the edge. Senator Leila De Lima went berserk and kept going on a rampage in front of the media blaming Duterte for what she considers “attacks” against her by the Department of Justice and by pro-Duterte Netizens on social media.

Another one who seems to be on the verge of going on a rampage is former President Fidel Ramos. He has been intensely criticising President Duterte lately. His behaviour is quite odd considering he is said to be the one who convinced Duterte to run for President. It’s also unusual because although he occasionally criticised former President BS Aquino, Ramos wasn’t as harsh as he is now with Duterte. In fact, with BS Aquino, Ramos was careful with his words — as if he didn’t want to offend him too much. Suffice to say, Ramos could be butthurt over something. Some say it is his pro-American stance that is making him despise Duterte.

Ramos is not just randomly giving press statements about Duterte, he has been writing a series of articles critical of him and his polices. It’s a good thing hardly anyone takes him too seriously nowadays, partly because his own term as president wasn’t completely corruption- and scandal-free. Some people associate Ramos with his pet project the Centennial Expo at Clark Airbase that was considered a failure, first because of the excesses in construction costs for the project at the expense of the Filipino taxpayers and, second, it became a white elephant after sustaining losses. It eventually closed down in 1999. What Ramos envisioned for the place did not materialise. It was a microcosm of the Ramos administration – full of promise but only on paper. Ramos did not initiate real reforms that could leave a lasting legacy beyond his term.

But now Ramos is saying that the Philippines is losing under the Duterte leadership — as if Duterte created all the problems he is trying to solve today. In fact, the Ramos administration was also into patronage politics or the padrino system of governance. This system, which trumps all system in place, is what is keeping the Philippines from moving forward. It is what allows the Philippines’ endemic corruption to persist. When you allow your allies to get away with committing crime or when you celebrate the mediocre performance of your cabinet members, you allow corruption to flourish.

Speaking of getting away with crime, a lot of people have not forgotten Ramos’s role during Martial Law. Ramos headed the Philippine Constabulary under former President Ferdinand Marcos. Just because Ramos played a role in the ousting of Marcos in 1986 after he defected doesn’t mean that he should be absolved of his shortcomings during what some people consider to be the darkest chapter in Philippine history. He was never taken to account for the abuses committed by the police under his command back then. It’s too bad the history books gloss over his role in the atrocities.

Duterte’s speech in China has also annoyed a lot of his critics particularly when his statements “I announce my separation from the United States” attracted hearty applause from the members of the Chinese government. Duterte went on to say that America has lost both in the military and economic fronts and that he will talk to Russian President Vladimir Putin just to prove that America’s dominance in the world is over. I can imagine members of the US government reeling with anger at being discussed with contempt in front of the Chinese.

Like a professional troll, Duterte knows how to get under people’s skin. It’s amusing the way pro-American commentators are reacting to his banter. They are so predictably. Duterte’s statements are meant to get a reaction and his detractors are getting played.

To people who are smart enough to understand where he is coming from, Duterte does make sense. They may not have announced it formally the way Duterte did but a lot of countries are already dealing with and showing deference to China. They already value China’s role in the world order. In fact, Filipinos who chant anti-China sentiments don’t even realise that a lot of businesses in the Philippine are run by her Filipino-Chinese citizens. What’s really baffling is why there are still Filipinos who refuse to embrace their Asian roots. The Chinese have for so long been trading with Filipinos — even before Filipinos became Filipinos.

Filipinos shouldn’t fret about the idea of the Philippines wanting to break away from the clutches of old “allies” and seeking an independent foreign policy. The United Kingdom did a similar thing when it voted to break away from the European Union earlier this year. Some thought they were crazy to do that. Now some are calling Duterte crazy for breaking with the US. Duterte being crazy remains to be seen. One way of confirming that is in how the US will react to his trolling. Will the US stay despite Duterte’s tirade or leave in retaliation? Either way, Duterte doesn’t care because he’s got new powerful friends now.

Trolling is not the same as calling for attention (kulang sa pansin)….
I agree with Ilda. I saw this in Duterte during the campaign period. His trolling is the best way to deal with hypocrites and the biased media. They fall for it every time. In the standard of statesmanship they may call it unprofessional, but with the hypocrites, the “disente”, the elite wannabes and the turncoats in our country, this is the best way to exposed their true colors.

Filipinos shouldn’t fret about the idea of the Philippines wanting to break away from the clutches of old “allies” and seeking an INDEPENDENT foreign policy. – Ilda That is absolutely misleading if not outright wrong. You don’t become independent on foreign policy just because you left a superpower ally in exchange for another superpower ally-to-be. Discarding old friends for new ones does not make one free and balance. In fact, treating a friend of long standing in such manner, regardless of true relationship you had, will make you look unbalanced and unhinged. Lastly, this so-called “separation” thing remains untouched and… Read more »

To be really honest with you, had someone say, this is the reason of the pivot and I support it or I believe Pres. Duterte’s reason because etc., etc. I would have engage such view to show my doubt why I believe otherwise. Oh sorry. I didn’t realize you were asking us what we “thought” was the “official reason”. I thought you were looking for the “official official reason.” Look, if you wanted our opinion, just say so, but in your post, you were asking for the “official reason,” something that nobody here can give. Sorry for the misunderstanding (but… Read more »

Yes Gnogid, you do have a right to know. But I can tell you right now that nobody here knows the “official reason.” Nobody has dared ask. If it bothers you so much, you could probably get access to some of the papers, memos, letters etc that went into the making of this decision. SECTION 3. Access to information. Every Filipino shall have access to information, official records, public records and to documents and papers pertaining to official acts, transactions or decisions, as well as to government research data used as basis for policy development. Just keep your expectations reasonable… Read more »

Don’t confine yourself to the “official reason,” it is more likely that the truth is that there are many reasons for this pivot. Why confine yourself to one? – Dick

It’s not about confining to one reason its about our RIGHT to know. Look, even you have no idea of what’s going by saying “it is more likely that the truth is…”. That line signifies uncertainty. There should be no “it is more likely” answer when we talk of official reason/act by the gov’t. that will bind us.

No matter how hard they tried, it is no secret that USA is supporting Roxas. They meddled during pre and post election time, it showed where their interest lie. It was a big mistake. While Roxas was begging for US support as far as 2008 to further his political ambitions. Duterte never trusted the USA. The Americans have a good history of toppling down regimes(either through propaganda or military) who dont adhere to their wishes. Read 222Hyden007Toro9999.999’s comments below and swallow it! The president is not stupid. Can he issue an OFFICIAL statement based on that? I dont think so,… Read more »

Despite the conflicting statements, Duterte is keeping his opponents befuddled while keeping the support of the people. The hypocrisy is the enemy’s weakness. It is very hard to listen to anyone if we are unsure whose interest at hand they’re playing for. So when the president speaks, the enemies are confused yet the people listens. This charisma is dangerous for a “bloodthirsty” geopolitician though. Something which is very easy for his critics to capitalize and instigate PUBLIC FEAR. He may be ruthless but he aint bloodthirsty. In Davao, the tribes(familial and ideological) are united yet the criminals are getting killed.… Read more »

So when the president speaks, the ENEMIES are confused yet the people listens. – marcus

Ah, that is the game the president is playing. Befuddle the enemy. But what is the criteria used to determine and identify who the “enemies” are? And why spent efforts confusing the enemy instead of explaining and clarifying to people what the government is doing?

Why spent precious hours confusing when what the government or the leadership should be doing is crystalizing the issue to the people?

Because there are some things no matter how you explain to people , they wouldn’t seem to get it, they will not understand not until you get that certain level of thinking, sometimes people take words literally , but it is not really what it means. And much you try to explain to people who’s hollow head they wouldn’t believe it. There are things we cannot understand and grasp. So how can you explain to people who doesn’t have that way of thinking of PDuterte, you just cant and leave it as it is, subject to the peoples interpretation .… Read more »

Despite the conflicting statements, Duterte is keeping his opponents befuddled while keeping the support of the people. So, there was an acknowledgement of ‘conflicting statements’. But why ignore it? Why not reconcie the conflict to better present the idea of the statements? It is very hard to listen to anyone if we are unsure whose interest at hand they’re playing for. Very true. And that is why the Duterte administration, so far, is doing a disservice to the Filipino people because they are unsure of whose interest he is promoting. So when the president speaks, the enemies are confused yet… Read more »

No, my friend, you have to be absolutely clear as to who the ‘enemy’ is. In times where EJK is the norm, one has to be clear and straightforward in alleging something that could spell life or death on somebody.

That is the reason why we dismissed Matobato for being unclear on his testimony.

And when are those times that EJK is the norm? Can please specify exactly, or not this is a doubtful statement. Isn’t it that the term “EJK” is also debated by the side of those for the government and those anti-government? Many people are using “EJK” as a definite term for “killing events” of which they don’t know the exact and infallible cause and purpose of. Unless there are solid proofs, EJK’s are still fictional to me and it isn’t the “norm” yet.

But what is the criteria used to determine and identify who the “enemies” are? And why spent efforts confusing the enemy instead of explaining and clarifying to people what the government is doing? -gnogid Let me have this honor to shove it to your butt. The people trusts the president, they are not confused. People like you are-the enemy, the critic, the loyalist yellowtard. You are in the exact position where he wants you to be. Checkmate! I’d take EJK for the criminals anytime over inaction and previous administrations. Lastly, Matobato is not the president! He does not have the… Read more »

Let me have this honor to shove it to your butt. Thanks for your “honorable” gesture of minding my butt but I prefer you focus your attention on Hyden Toro’s sagging and prune-like buttcha-callit for he prefers to be pampered on that area. 😄 Now, let me waste a couple of seconds on you while waiting for my coffee to brew. The people trusts the president, they are not confused. Really? Show me the money. Where’s proof of that? Don’t take that as an insult for you maybe right in saying that. However, the proof of the pudding, as we… Read more »

Hah?! I just did the first move and checkmate already? You wish! You have to make your move first (show what you got) to defeat the other side. You cannot just have one move and end the game. – gnogid

Not between you and me but with the president you yellowtard! Are you not confused? There’s that. Let it be clear to your head. Trolling checkmate. The president has succeeded. So go on and whine how confused you are, that is exactly what he wants. That is Ilda’s point. Congratulations!

I’m resisting the temptation to slam you with your own arguments but I cannot become the very people I hate. It is the honorable thing to do. Everything is subjective and molded by our own interest. In this case we clearly differ. I respect your views even if you dont respect mine. It does not matter to me. The faults of humanity never fails to amaze me my friend. We are victims, you and I. Thank you for the enlightenment. Much love, Marcus. ps, Apologies but you are not part of my professional trolling contract. I will defer your arguments… Read more »

This is what @gnogid is doing all along because number one, that is your fear and number two, the easiest way to tempt a person to defend his own statement and be always sound defensive. – Leibrook Why be concerned to sound defensive and what’s wrong in defending what you believe in? Man, don’t ‘defend’ if you don’t feel like doing it. What’s important is you share, explain, clarify your point about the issue. Don’t take things personal. I wonder who’s interest his on. His too focus on making arguments rather than sharing his own crystallized ideas he so demand… Read more »

Marcus, “I’m resisting the temptation to slam you with your own arguments but I cannot become the very people I hate.” This is what @gnogid is doing all along because number one, that is your fear and number two, the easiest way to tempt a person to defend his own statement and be always sound defensive. I wonder who’s interest his on. His too focus on making arguments rather than sharing his own crystallized ideas he so demand from the president. As if anybody can ask the enemy about how you will defeat me? just Stupid! The president is not… Read more »

I’m resisting the temptation to slam you with your own arguments but I cannot become the very people I hate. It is the honorable thing to do. I’d rather you not “resist” the temptation to slam me with your/my argument because that is the very essence of this blog: to exchange ideas and engage to discuss issues with mature and intelligent mindset. Resisting or retreating is NEVER honorable, my friend. I respect your views even if you dont respect mine. It does not matter to me. You mean people who agrees with you “respect” your view and those who do… Read more »

Pres. Duterte does not blog. I am not sure , if he reads the GRP Web Article, or the GRP bloggers’ comments. Fidel Ramos is as corrupt, as any of the past Presidents. There is a rumor here , in the U.S. that: “Ramos owns the “Seafood City” commercial chains of establishments”…from Los Angeles, California, to Las Vegas, Nevada and now to Chicago, Illinois. Ramos is richer, and more corrupt, than Marcos, Sr. Where did Fidel Ramos get the money ? Fidel Ramos is very much indebted to the Aquino-Cojuangco political axis. This is the reason, he was soft on… Read more »

What’s really baffling is why there are still Filipinos who refuse to embrace their Asian roots. Filipinos shouldn’t fret about the idea of the Philippines wanting to break away from the clutches of old “allies” and seeking an independent foreign policy. The two statements above only proves the disconnect between the president and the Filipino people. No wonder, Ilda has pulled out all the stops just so we can have a glimpse or resemblance of something as to what Pres. Duterte’s intentions are. In spite of that, the whole piece failed to encapsulate the real objective, the agenda and intentions… Read more »

Why don’t you make your own article, gnogid? write it in light of a whole clear idea, explain why you think it matters and let the readers think if it has salt. I read you all over when the article in GRP is directly about the President, but if not, well you are no where to be found. I suspect you want to influence readers and I believe you can, but not in directly challenging their personal opinions just like what you are doing here because instead of engaging them you will get their angst. If you are really on… Read more »

I’m being block to post right now. I just went to a neighbor to post this one back. Thanks for reading me. You are correct, I do focus on the gov’t. or, specifically, the president with regard to sharing views and opinion. I’m a citizen, the president represents me. I’m a taxpayer and I pay the president’s salary as well as the upkeep of the government. I have the right to say. I don’t know if you see something wrong in that. I don’t. In fact, it’s perfectly healthy. But that is not the whole story. I’m a minority here.… Read more »

With or without response, I’m fine to share my view on the board. I’d rather people not respond than respond by insults or name-call. Nonsense or offensive response, contrary to the belief of one who writes it, are really insults to the administrator of this blog. We should ALL avoid it.

Oh boo hoo suddenly mema’s a victim. That’s rich coming from someone who likes to impose his views on comments that has nothing to do with him. Serves you right. 😂

I feel you now. Hmm.. if being involved and be heard is your personal driving force why you’re so passionate here. I suggest you change your way of throwing your thoughts and questions. Instead of opposing someone’s opinion directly by posting their statements and write down your 180 degree reactions, why not pose it like this: i.g. Leibrook, I find your thoughts candid, however I am concern in the area of shaded facts like how could the president feel so convinced that pivoting towards China is the best path to take while at the same time trying to antagonized US?… Read more »

Duterte lives with his foot in his mouth. I can’t wait to see where he takes the Philippines in the future.

Looks like it’s going to be a fun ride for the Philippines, hehe. For now, I’m at the outside looking into an aquarium representing the Philippines and waiting for something to happen (like after some source is cut off, let’s see what will the fishes do to each other, hehe).

Former President Ramos is just showing what he thinks is wrong with some of President Duterte”s pronouncements especially on “separating” from USA. He may have some valid points having been PNP Chief and a president. Preseident Duterte is NOT infallible. He could commit mistakes being only human so he should have an open mind to listen to experienced people like Ramos who even convinced him to run in the first place. So if Ramos criticises him it must be due to some sincere conviction that Duterter may be wrong and am sure it is for country”s interest he has in… Read more »

Duterte is an idiot and now GRP is kissing his ass just because Arroyo is supporting him, not because Duterte is great. That’s the truth no matter how you twisted it. I hope the US will pull out all its billion-dollar BPO industry and foreign direct investments in the Philippines, which could affect millions of Filipinos employed, so that Duterte would realize that the Philippines still need US.

Huh?! Not paid? And my views are accepted? I guess you are new here! This GRP was created in support of Gloria Arroyo’s agenda and perhaps even Ferdinand Marcos. All it did throughout the years and until now is to attack and demean the Liberal Party irregardless of the good news of the programs and projects Noynoy Aquino achieved in the past, and use by Filipinos in present days and this new admin. Some of my views in the past were deleted even though they were valid and had good references. Hard truth and facts GRP is allergic to. They… Read more »

This GRP was created in support of Gloria Arroyo’s agenda and perhaps even Ferdinand Marcos

Interesting. Can please support that statement because you come across as just “grasping straws” in an attempt to say anything to put down GRP? Prove that first please. Otherwise, your statement is just a figment of your imagination. You need to try harder then son.

I have been a fan of the writers here of GRP and so far most of their articles nailed the issues plaguing beloved Philippines.

All it did throughout the years and until now is to attack and demean the Liberal Party irregardless of the good news of the programs and projects Noynoy Aquino achieved in the past, and use by Filipinos in present days and this new admin.

Congratulations on making yourself look stupid. You just labeled yourself yellow all around face. Next would be, how much?

GRP was created during the Erap administration and Benign0 even opposed his ouster. I won’t speak for GRP, but the views of its writers are varied, Its even rare to see a unanimous stand from them on many issues.

Liberal Party irregardless of the good news of the programs and projects Noynoy Aquino achieved in the past, and use by Filipinos in present days and this new admin.

Yes, as well as the social ills, and entrenched corruption and ineptitude, the effects of which are still felt today.

How idiotic. Immediately equating trade arrangements to China as trade in illegal drugs. So what if they produce raw materials of shabu? Does it mean we will trade in it? Just because the previous administration turned us into a narco state doesn’t mean that this one will.

Not only shabu but also the fake/poisonous goods, products, substandard materials and all that China keeps on flooding the Philippines since time immemorial. And now this Duterte admin is embracing it with open arms and legs for the destruction of the Philippines. China is also the leading country destroying Philippine natural resources just like illegal mining and illegal logging and all that. Oh, few years from now, Philippines will be destroyed and Filipinos will regret in the end. Tsk3x. So sad.

More to come and more to follow in the future from Jigs’ continuous posting of Yellow faggotries. Kekekekek! When Duterte was ousted then let’s celebrate the Yellows’ return to power because ‘happy days are here again’! LOLOLOLOLOL!

Ummm, you need to reread again Ilda’s article. You interpreted her article differently.

Maybe she is connected on Drugs

Interesting. What made you conclude and ask this question that she “might be connected to drugs”? Were you emotionally unstable to just type this statement without reading first exactly what she meant?

Former? Filipino actress? You mean Agot Isidro? Former? Clearly then you’re either not watching TV coz she has a running show primetime on top TV network. Or maybe you’re just misinformed, or don’t know how to verify facts. Google is free btw.